Pathophysiology
List at least 3 contributing factors of pancreatic cancer.
cigarette smoking
exposure to chemical carcinogens
diabetes mellitus
pancreatitis
diet high in meat, fat, coffee and alcohol
obesity
List at least 3 signs/symptoms of pancreatic cancer.
Anorexia
Fatigue
Nausea and flatulence
Change in stools- clay colored
Steady, dull aching pain in the gastric area
Weight loss
Jaundice
Onset of diabetes mellitus
Ascites
Chemotherapy and radiation are common treatments of pancreatic cancer. True or False?
False
At what stage is pancreatic cancer usually detected?
Stage 4
Why is pancreatic cancer not usually found in its early stages?
It often does not cause symptoms until after it has spread to other organs.
What is the name of the surgical procedure that includes the resection of the proximal pancreas, duodenum, distal stomach, and distal common bile duct(CBD)?
Whipple Procedure
What pain medication would a nurse most be most likely to administer to a patient with pancreatic cancer in palliative care?
Opioids (morphine)
What is the usual life expectancy of a patient following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis?
4-8 months
What is the worldwide 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer?
Approximately 6% survival rate.
A patient has been diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. What is a common drug prescribed for the treatment of this patient?
gemcitabine hydrochloride(Gemzar)